Power Electronics and Drives MSc

This module introduces the state-space representation of physical systems and the control design of multi-input multi-output systems using multivariable control techniques for both continuous and discrete implementation.

The module then covers both the full and reduced observer design for those cases when state variables are not measurable. The module finishes with an overview of optimal control design.

Delivery

Assessment method

This module covers the design of power electronic converters for real applications. Both component-level design and the impact of non-idealities on modelling and operation are considered.

Assessment

Exam, 40.0%

Coursework 1, 30.0%

Coursework 2, 30.0%

Coursework:

Power electronic systems design exercise that puts module content into practice using modelling and simulation tools.

Key Module Topics

Advanced modelling and control of power converters

Enabling technologies of power conversion (semiconductor devices, packaging, cooling)

The module expands students lifelong learning skills by developing their proficiency in self- assessment of their knowledge. This will be achieved by asking students to identify gaps in their knowledge in the core areas of electrical and electronic engineering and the development and implementation of an improvement plan.

The problem/project based learning will be used to reinforce the fundamental skills of an electrical and electronic engineer. These problems will be introduced in student led small group seminars where students will discuss the problem and discuss what background knowledge is required and suitable resources. A member of academic staff will aid the students identify appropriate learning material where students find it difficult to do so. As part of the learning experience, students will keep a weekly online log detailing the learning activities undertaken, what they have learnt and the areas they still need to develop.

Practical skills, both ICT and laboratory based skills will be developed using both individual and group activities.

To provide formative feedback during this learning period, there will be 4 compulsory on-line tests. Although the mark attained is not used in the calculation of the module mark, failure, without good cause to complete 3 of the 4 tests within the given time window, will result in a zero module mark.

ICT technology plays a key role in modern engineering and this module will introduce typical commercial engineering packages used in their area of interest. The software packages are Matlab, Keysight ADS ( Circuit Simulation), ADS (communication systems simulation), Simulink, PLECS

Experience of these packages will be gained from solving exemplar problems.  Students will be required to show competency in 2 packages. A student may elect to experience more ICT packages but will not be assessed on them.

Method and Frequency of Class:

The formative progress tests will be on-line for completion within a 24 hour period.

Method of Assessment:

This module aims to develop an understanding of the design and operation of power systems in aerospace, marine and automotive applications. With the introduction of more electrical technologies in these application areas, the understanding and expected performance of the power system has become a critical platform design issue.

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This module addresses the control of AC drives and consists of a lecture component (10 credits) and a design and assessment project (10 credits)

The lecture component covers vector controlled induction motor drives and permanent magnet motor drives. Vector control is covered in depth covering the concept of space vectors, dq representation of 3-phase machines, dynamic equation structure and the concepts of direct and indirect flux orientation. Implementation of Indirect Vector Control, including current flux and speed control is covered in some detail and includes the effect of incorrect parameters.

Both AC and Brushless DC permanent magnet motor drives are introduced. The vector control concepts learned for induction machines are applied to AC PM machines. The concept of salient and non-salient AC PM machines are covered leading to the vector control using maximum torque per amp control strategies. Finally the field weakening control of both non-salient and salient PM machines are considered.

The project component is a design and simulation exercise using MATLAB/Simulink. The student is required to design an indirect vector controlled induction motor drive, implement the design in Simulink, and undertake evaluative tests covering current and speed loop performance, including field weakening for high speed. The exercise covers investigating the effects of parameter variation and designing engineered solutions to reducing the sensitivity.

Delivery

Assessment method

A project-oriented module involving a review of publications and views on a topic allied to the chosen specialist subject. The module will also involve organisation and design of the main project. Skills will be acquired through workshops and seminars that will include:

• Further programming in MATLAB and /or MSExcel Macros
• Project planning and use of Microsoft Project
• Measurement and error analysis
• Development of laboratory skills including safety & risk assessment

Students will select a further set of specialist seminars from, e.g.:

• Meshing for computational engineering applications
• Modelling using CAE packages
• Use of CES Selector software
• Specific laboratory familiarisation
• Use of MSVisio software for process flow
• Use of HYSYS process modelling software
• Use of PSpice to simulate analogue and digital circuits

The specialist seminars will be organised within the individual MSc courses.

Delivery

Three hour seminars in 12 weeks.

Assessment method

In this module a student will be assigned to an individual supervisor who will be a staff member in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering. The student will carry out a practical or theoretical project chosen from the current interests of the staff member concerned.

The student will be expected to conduct a literature survey, undertake practical or theoretical work and write a dissertation on this work.

The module aims to give experience of completing a major investigation within the topic area of their MSc course, including planning the work to meet a final deadline and reporting on the work both in a structured written report and by an informal oral presentation.

Assessment method

This module provides students with an understanding of power system apparatus and their behaviour under normal and fault conditions. This module covers:

• concept and analysis of load flow
• voltage/current symmetrical components
• computation of fault currents
• economic optimisation
• power-system control and stability
• power system protection

Delivery

Assessment method

This module covers the analysis and design of renewable and sustainable energy systems. It covers the various types of renewable energy and the resources available.

It uses an understanding of the physical principles of various types of energy resources in order to develop analytical models which can be applied to the design of renewable energy systems, including energy conversion and storage, especially for electrical power generation.

It includes;

• Wind power: wind probability distributions, wind turbine performance and control, comparison of generator types
• Hydro and tidal power: resource assessment, turbine types and principles
• Solar power, including PV cell equivalent circuit, analysis of losses, matching to DC and AC power systems
• Wave power systems, including wave energy characteristics, types of energy converter
• Characteristics of synchronous and induction generators
• Embedded generation; types of generator and operation of RE within the power system
• Economic and environmental assessment of energy conversion technologies.

Delivery

Assessment method

This module covers a selection of topics where information is acquired from sensors and subsequently electronically processed.

Applications include:

• optical
• acoustic
• non-destructive evaluation
• medical
• biophotonics

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